Kevin Keegan, former England captain and manager, has died at the age of 75, Newcastle United confirmed on Monday. The football icon had been undergoing cancer treatment since early this year, with his family and club announcing in January that he was battling the illness. In June, Keegan revealed that he was diagnosed with stage four cancer.

Newcastle United described Keegan as one of the most influential and beloved figures in the club’s history. “As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be,” the Premier League team said in a statement. “As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world.”

Born in 1951, Keegan began his professional career with Scunthorpe United before signing with Liverpool in 1971. Over six seasons at Anfield, he appeared in 323 matches and scored 100 goals, helping Liverpool secure three First Division titles, the FA Cup, two UEFA Cups, and the 1977 European Cup.

Keegan’s tenure at German club Hamburg marked a career peak, where he was awarded the European Footballer of the Year in both 1978 and 1979, making him the only British player to twice win the Ballon d’Or. Returning to England, he played for Southampton and Newcastle United before retiring in 1984 at 33.

On the international stage, Keegan earned 63 caps for England from 1972 to 1982, scoring 21 goals and captaining the team 31 times. He entered management with Newcastle United in 1992, leading the club back to the Premier League and establishing one of the most entertaining sides in English football history. His 1995-96 team narrowly missed winning the Premier League title, finishing behind Manchester United.

Keegan’s managerial career included brief periods at Fulham and Manchester City, as well as a spell as England manager from 1999 until his resignation after Euro 2000. He cited personal inadequacies for stepping down following a defeat to Germany, having won seven of 18 matches in charge. In 2008, he returned to Newcastle United for a second management stint lasting eight months before retiring from football.

Kevin Keegan’s legacy as both a player and manager remains significant in English football, remembered for his skill, leadership, and passion for the game.